A tribute was paid to Michael O'Hanrahan in Wexford last week as crowds gathered at O'Hanrahan Station to remember the Irish rebel.

Mayor of Wexford Cllr Frank Staples addressed a large crowd who gathered at the station to honour the New Ross native who was executed for his participation in the Easter Rising. He spoke of the dedication that Michael had for his country and culture.

'He devoted his whole life to the freedom of Ireland, to the preservation of the Irish language and the ideals of a pure and enlightened republicanism of liberty, equality, fraternity,' he said. 'Ireland has and always will face challenges. Having just overcome a great economic upheaval, we are now suddenly facing a new and great uncertainty.'

'In facing up to resolving current difficulties, today's leaders will need inspiration, courage and resolve and for this they need to look no further than Michael O'Hanrahan.'

The event marked 50 years since the station was renamed in Michael's honour and formed part of Iarnród Éireann's 1916 commemorations in partnership with the Royal Irish Academy. Pearse O'Hanrahan and Harry O'Hanrahan lay a wreath in honour of their grand-uncle, while grand-niece Deirdre Lawlor was also in attendance.

Historian Carmel Doyle also gave an informative speech about Michael O'Hanrahan, who was extremely politically involved from a young age. During the Rising, O'Hanrahan served in Jacob's biscuit factory where he was third in commend under MacDonagh and Major John MacBride. He was taken into custody following the surrender of the Jacob's garrison on Sunday April 30, tried by court-martial and executed on May 4.